This Memorial Day, we are highlighting Ronald E. Walters, a federal employee whose work honors the legacy of those who served our nation.
At the Department of Veterans Affairs, Walters leads the National Cemetery Administration to ensure that all veterans—regardless of when, where or how they died—are honored properly and their loved ones supported.
The NCA is responsible for every detail, big and small, for 157 national cemeteries across the country. From mowing the grass to arranging the burials, the agency works to provide a seamless, world-class experience for the bereaved.
This hard work has paid off—the American Customer Satisfaction Index, the gold standard for evaluating consumer experiences, has rated the NCA the highest of any entity, public or private, eight straight times. Its most recent score was a 98 out of 100.
Leading by example
None of the work the NCA does would be possible without Walters.
He leads every day with dedication, attention to detail and compassion. His innovative mindset has led to operational changes that improve outcomes, including cohesive national standards for all cemeteries under his watch, opening new cemeteries and ensuring that the experience for families is smooth, respectful and caring.
He created the Veterans Legacy Memorial, which serves as both a database to help people locate buried veterans as well as a memory book for people to leave photographs, memories and other notes thanking veterans. Hosting more than 10 million records, the memorial works to ensure no veteran is left forgotten.
Walters’ commitment to veterans extends beyond those who have already passed.
He also created an apprenticeship program that enables homeless veterans to access education and training assistance through employment at a VA national cemetery. Alumni say the program provides those in need with a second chance and sense of purpose.
Robert McDonald, who served as the secretary of veterans affairs under President Barack Obama, called Walters a “true leader” who “cares about integrity, commitment and advocacy—never ‘What does this do for me?’” This sentiment has been echoed by many who have worked with or for Walters.
Making a difference—without fanfare
Walters was a 2014 Service to America Medals® honoree and more recently featured in “Who is Government?,” a series by The Washington Post that was turned into a book edited by bestselling author Michael Lewis.
Still, Walters’ work remains largely under the radar. But his daily push to make the NCA the best it can be means that when it really matters, during the hard moment of losing a loved one, families can expect a smooth, helpful and sympathetic experience from the VA.
This Memorial Day, help us share this story of a public servant who makes sure our nation’s veterans are remembered—and their sacrifices honored—as they should be.
Explore more exceptional stories of public servants, including those supporting our nation’s veterans.